Tag: "Franklin Resources"

Report: Analyst Says Creditors Seeking iHeartMedia Bankrputcy. From a report published today in the San Antonio Express analyzing the recent offer to lenders and bondholders from iHeartMedia and the counteroffer from the Franklin Resources–led group, comes the quote from Bloomberg Intelligence credit analyst Philip Brendel that “the lender group is not moving much. They believe their best interests will be served by the company filing for bankruptcy” as opposed to an out-of-court agreement over debt-for-equity. Although negotiations are continuing, Debtwire senior credit analyst Seth Crystall is quoted saying that creditors don’t want iHM management to “have anything.” Last week’s counterproposal by creditors seeks 95.3% of iHeartMedia and 100% of iHM’s ownership of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings. Creditors would then recapitalize the company with $7 billion in new bonds. For iHeartMedia, $324.2 million in debt comes due in 2018 with $8.4 billion due in 2019. Read the Express story here.

WBEN-AM, Buffalo Talk Host Tom Bauerle Suffers Heart Attack; Awaits Surgery. Longtime Buffalo talk show host Tom Bauerle – who co-hosts the afternoon drive show on Entercom’s WBEN-AM with David Bellavia – recently suffered a heart attack and is awaiting more tests as doctors prepare to do quadruple bypass surgery. In a Facebook video, Bauerle explains that he went to the hospital after feeling short of breath and experiencing chest pain. Doctors have determined he has significant blockage. He says he expects to be off the air at least through December and likely through much of January. Bellavia will continue to host the show in his absence.

TALKERS News Notes. The video news channel Newsmax TV expands its footprint with a new carriage distribution deal with DISH. Newsmax says that Newsmax TV is now available on channel 216 to DISH customers who subscribe to the pay-TV provider’s America’s Top 120 and above programming packages. Newsmax TV launched in 2014 as a 24/7 cable news channel. Newsmax Media CEO Christopher Ruddy states, “DISH is one of the biggest satellite operators in the nation and we are proud to be carried on their system. We believe DISH subscribers want more cable news choices, and we have demonstrated that Newsmax TV is bringing in new viewers who want more than the conventional news lineup.”…..The Denver alt-weekly Westword has been following the status of former KOA, Denver morning personality Steffan Tubbs. If you recall, Tubbs was arrested back in July on a charge of domestic violence by telephone and the iHeartMedia news/talk station dismissed him from his position. Those charges have subsequently been dropped (although they could be re-filed before the July anniversary if prosecutors change their minds) but Tubbs says he’s been told he won’t get his job back. The Westword story gives a pretty detailed account of the people and incidents that have put Tubbs in this situation. Read it here…..Two staffers of Pilot Knob Broadcasting’s KIOW-FM, Forest City, Iowa have been let go from their positions after their racist comments were broadcast on an online video channel. The DesMoines Register reports that longtime high school sports play-by-play announcer Orin Harris and board operator Holly Jane Kusserow-Smidt were talking during a break from the KIOW-FM broadcast about the names of players on one of the high school basketball teams playing in the game they were broadcasting. The conversation turned racist in nature and although the radio station was in a commercial break, the online video channel serving local schools was using the station’s audio and the conversation was heard on that broadcast. Kusserow-Smidt also works for a local school district as a third-grade teacher. She’s been suspended during an internal review of the matter. Read the Register piece here…..Public radio station WBUR, partners with Reddit for a new podcast, “Endless Thread,” hosted by Ben Brock Johnson. WBUR says Johnson and producer Amory Sivertson “will guide listeners on an unexpected journey by uncovering the best stories from ‘the front page of the internet’ and bringing them to life in audio form.”….. Westwood One News is producing two long-form, year-in-review programs for stations. The first is “The Year in Review – The Big Stories,” anchored by “First Light” host Evan Haning. Second is “The Year in Review – People, Sports and Entertainment,” anchored by “America in the Morning” host John Trout. The network is also providing stations a 20-part series of one-minute reports, each on a major story of 2017, from President Trump’s first year to the year in business, entertainment, and sports. Both specials and the 20-part series are available to Westwood One News affiliates and Cumulus stations.

Entercom Promotes Power of Radio in Ad Age Spread. The multi-page paid presentation in Ad Age is titled, “The Sound Solution: Why Radio Is the Key to ROI and Reach Advertisers Need Now,” and contains a lot of the data industry insiders are aware of. But it’s packaged as a Q&A with Entercom CEO David Field answering questions with that data that includes statements about radio’s 93% reach, its “loyal” and “engaged” audience, the “$10-to-$1 return on investment,” and more. Check it out here.

WMAL-AM/FM, Washington Raises Almost $500k for Fisher House Foundation. Pictured above are (from l-r) WMAL, Washington “Mornings On The Mall” co-host Vince Coglianese, Fisher House Foundation president Dave Coker, WMAL and Westwood One personality Chris Plante, and WMAL afternoon host Larry O’Connor at the station’s two-day, live radiothon to benefit the Fisher House Foundation. It took place last Friday and Saturday (12/1-2) and raised more than $456,000 in donations. The Fisher House Foundation provides homes away from home for the families of injured servicemen and women while their partners are undergoing treatment and rehabilitation.

Trump-Russia Investigation, Roy Moore Senate Candidacy, GOP Tax Reform Bill, Trump Jerusalem Recognition, ABC News-Brian Ross Reprimand, SCOTUS Wedding Cake Case, Utah National Monument Issue, Travel Ban Takes Effect, Conyers Sexual Misbehavior Allegations, College Football Playoffs, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/4). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; former Alabama judge Roy Moore’s candidacy for U.S. Senate and allegations of sexual predation against him; analysis of the Republican tax reform bill; international concern over President Trump’s desire to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel; the blowback against ABC News after Brian Ross’ incorrect report that Trump asked Michael Flynn to contact Russians during the campaign; the Supreme Court’s hearing of arguments in the case of a Colorado bakery that refused to make a wedding cake for a gay couple; President Trump orders Utah national monuments reduced; the Supreme Court allows Trump’s travel ban to take effect while lower courts review it; the allegations of sexual misbehavior against Congressman John Conyers; the four teams selected for the College Football Playoffs and other bowl games; and the weekend’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Seattle Format Flips Change Country, Rock, and AC Landscape. One company is ditching one of its country stations for adult contemporary and another is leaving the rock music behind for country. Hubbard Radio puts an end to KVRQ “Seattle’s Rock Station” and flips to country as “Country 98.9 FM.” This change comes as Entercom ends the country format on KMPS and goes soft AC as “The New 94.1 The Sound.” One staffer from KMPS is staying with the company as Deanna Lee moves to Entercom’s sister country KKWF “100.7 The Wolf” to host the midday show. Now, the country battle in Seattle will pit Entercom’s KKWF against KVRQ. In the AC wars, KMPS will go up against Hubbard’s KRWM.

More Music Radio News and Career Moves. At alternative rock WNOH, Norfolk “ALT 105.3,” Brett Ballard is named program director and afternoon host. Ballard comes to Norfolk from iHeartMedia’s WTKX, Mobile where he was program director. iHeartMedia Norfolk SVP of programming Tias Schuster comments, “After the successful launch of ‘Hampton Roads Alternative Rock Station ALT 105.3,’ we knew that this station needed one of the best programmers to take the helm. I had the privilege of working in the same market as Brett Ballard and knew of his ability as a dynamic rock programmer. We look forward to welcoming him to the Norfolk team and having the privilege of working alongside him as we continue to give Hampton Roads a better choice with ‘ALT 105.3.’”…..Nationally syndicated afternoon drive personality D.L. Hughley signs a new, multi-year agreement with Reach Media to continue syndicating his program. Hughley states, “I’m excited that my radio show continues to grow on a national basis, but the honesty and interaction with my audience make it the ‘biggest local and personal show in radio.’ Extending the relationship with Reach Media gives me the opportunity to address what’s important to people I care about in an entertaining, but meaningful way – making a difference in their day!”…..Premiere Networks is presenting an exclusive holiday special for country radio stations hosted by award-winning radio and CMT personality Cody Alan. The four-hour, barter-free “Home for the Holidays with CMT’s Cody Alan” includes conversations with country music stars including: Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean and Trisha Yearwood, who will share stories of Christmas memories, favorite gifts and family traditions. The show is available to air anytime between December 22- 25…..Entercom announces the call letter changes in Boston and Chicago. Hot AC “Mix 104.1” in Boston becomes WWBX as its WBMX calls are shipped off to the company’s Chicago hot AC “Mix 104.1.”

Round Four of November PPM Data Released. The fourth and final round of November 2017 PPM ratings information from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Greensboro, West Palm Beach, Jacksonville, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s November 2017 survey period covered October 12 – November 8. View all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM markets. Please note the Entercom takeover of CBS Radio was concluded nine days after the final day of the November 2017 sweep (11/17); we will cease using CBS Radio references beginning with the December 2017 sweep.

TWELVE TAKEAWAYS

1) Austin – On the heels of logging a -.5 in October to 4.6, its weakest 6+-showing since December 2016’s 4.5, iHeartMedia CHR KHFI bounces back with a gain nearly twice that deficit (5.5, +.9, 6+) and zooms from eighth to fourth. From May through September, “96.7 Kiss FM – Austin’s #1 Hit Music Station” was trending 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.3 – 5.1 (6+) and has its best 6+-stat since posting a 5.5 in August 2016. It is, however, a mixed bag for its co-owned country siblings. As is the situation with “Kiss FM,” KVET-FM “98.1 All Time Country Favorites” improves by nine-tenths in November (6.6 – 7.5) and is anchored at #3, but KASE “Austin’s #1 For New Country” falters by one-half share (5.1 – 4.6, 6+), dropping from fifth to seventh. Within 6.1 – 6.7 range (6+) in each of the last eight sweeps, KVET-FM last reached the seven-share level (6+) in January 2015 (7.0). Meanwhile, “Genuine Austin Radio’s KOKE-FM, which hadn’t been without a loss since February for an overall gain of eight-tenths (1.7- 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+), slips by two-tenths to 2.3 (6+) and is flat at #16. October’s 2.5 was the best 6+-showing for “Austin’s Country Alternative” since September 2016 (2.5, as well). In three successive uptrends, University of Texas at Austin-owned triple A KUTX “98.9 The Austin Music Experience” has more than doubled its 6+-share (1.1 – 1.5 – 1.8 – 2.3, tied at #19 to #16 tied with KOKE, 6+) and reaches the two-share threshold (2.3, 6+) for the first time since March (2.1). Improving by one-half share as well (8.3 – 8.8, 6+) is Emmis adult hits KBPA “Bob,” which is #1 for the tenth successive month. The November increase to 8.8, its strongest 6+-stat since 9.1 in March, halts three down or flat trends for a collective -.4 (8.7 – 8.7 – 8.6 – 8.3, 6+). “Bob” was a combined -1.7 in April and May, with May’s 7.4 its lowest 6+-stat since June 2015’s 7.4. While remaining in the runner-up slot, University of Texas at Austin’s KUT falters by three-tenths to 7.6 (6+), thus ending three straight gains for an inclusive +1.8 (6.1 – 6.5 – 7.1 – 7.9, 6+). Its 7.9 in October was the news/talk outlet’s highest 6+-share since 9.0 in November 2016. Following three straight declines in which it lost approximately half of its 6+-share for a -1.8 (3.7 – 3.0 – 2.4 – 1.9, 6+), Crista Media contemporary Christian KFMK “Spirit 105.9” picks up one-tenth to 2.0 (6+) and continues at #18. With October’s 1.9 (6+), “Spirit” fell below a two-share (6+) for the first time in more than six years (1.5, August 2011). Off by eight-tenths (6.3 – 5.5, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary KKMJ “Majic 95.5 – Better Music For a Better Workday” remains at #4, tied with KHFI.

2) Raleigh – After eight successive sweeps without an increase for a combined -3.2 (8.8 – 8.5 – 8.5 – 8.4 – 7.1 – 6.9 – 6.7 – 6.4 – 5.6, 6+), Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL “Mix 101.5” answers with a full-share improvement to 6.6 (+1.0, 6+) as it carries on in fifth-place. “Mix 101.5” finished first for four straight sweeps before slipping to third in June; however, in October (5.6), it was under a six-share (6+) for the first time since February 2013’s 5.9. More than doubling its 6+-share (+2.6) as a result of four straight improvements (2.4 – 3.5 – 3.7 – 4.3 – 5.0, 6+), sports talk sibling WCMC “99.9 The Fan” not only moves from #10 to a three-way tie at #7, it boasts its best-ever 6+-stat (5.0) in the PPM-era. A combined -1.3 in September and October (6.4 – 5.6 – 5.1, 6+), Curtis Media Group adult hits WBBB applies the brakes with a November surge of nine-tenths to 6.0 (seventh to sixth, 6+). Prior to September, “96.1 BBB, Your Life – Your Music” registered four successive increases for an overall gain of +2.1 (4.3 – 4.9 – 6.0 – 6.3 – 6.4, 6+). A May boost of six-tenths brought to a close three consecutive downward trends that accounted for a six-tenths’ loss (4.9 – 4.8 – 4.4 – 4.3, 6+). Debuting in July at #14 with a 2.4 (6+), the stream of WBBB disappeared from print in August and has not resurfaced. In addition to curtailing three successive decreases that accounted for a -.6 (4.5 – 4.4 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WRDU “100.7 – Raleigh’s Classic Rock” recaptures all of it – plus three-tenths more – and cracks the top ten (4.7, +.8, #12 to #10, 6+). Apparently partial to November sweeps, Radio One urban contemporary WQOK “K-97.5 Real Hip-Hop and R&B” registers a one-half share increase to 6.9, its strongest 6+-showing in exactly two years (6.9, November 2015), climbing from fourth to third. Up two-tenths (8.7 – 8.9, 6+), urban AC sibling WFXC “Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” is #1 for the sixth straight month. A loss of one-half share this time last month stopped six straight upticks that netted +2.4 (6.8 – 7.2 – 7.5 – 8.1 – 8.2 – 8.7 – 9.2, 6+); September’s 9.2 was its highest 6+-share since 9.6 in May 2011. Having amassed two full shares since June in four consecutive increases that more than doubled its 6+-share (1.8 – 1.9 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.8, 6+), Educational Information Corporation’s WCPE “89.7 The Classical Station” surrenders 70% of that increase (2.4, -1.4, 6+) to tumble from #14 to #16. It is a tough ratings period for the market’s two country FMs as Curtis Media Group’s WQDR “Today’s Best Country 94.7 QDR” (7.7 – 6.9, unchanged at #3, 6+) and iHeartMedia-owned WNCB “New Country B-93.9” (3.9 – 3.1, #12 to #13, 6+) each sputter by eight-tenths. WQDR registered a 7.7 (6+) in three of the six previous ratings periods and has its weakest 6+-showing (6.9) since January’s 6.9; likewise, this is the lowest 6+-stat for WNCB since “Holiday” 2016 (3.1, as well). A combined +1.4 in August, September, and October (6.7 – 6.9 – 7.7 – 8.1, 6+), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s WUNC slips two-tenths to 7.9 (6+) but continues in the runner-up slot. Prior to August, the news/talk outlet was -1.8 in four straight negative trends (8.5 – 7.9 – 7.2 – 7.0 – 6.7, 6+). Flat at #7, iHeartMedia CHR WDCG “G-105 Raleigh’s #1 Hit Music Station” is an overall -1.9 in five monthlies in succession without an increase (6.9 – 6.2 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.1 – 5.0, 6+), matching its lowest 6+-share since “Holiday” 2013 (5.0).

3) Indianapolis – The yoyo effect goes on for Cumulus Media’s WFMS, which was a combined +.8 in May and June; -.9 in July; +.8 in August; +.5 in September; -.7 in October; and now +1.1 in November (5.9 – 6.5 – 6.7 – 5.8 – 6.6 – 7.1 – 6.4 – 7.5, 6+). When the dust settles, “95.5 The Country Station” is a cumulative +1.6 in that stretch, advancing from #5 in October to where it was in September – #2. In the process, it bypasses Emmis-owned WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank FM,” which is flat from October in both (6+) market share (7.1) and market rank (#3). A +.8 in October took “Hank” to 7.1, its strongest 6+-showing since September 2015’s 7.6. Just one-tenth ahead of WFMS is classic hits-oldies cluster-mate WJJK, which drops three-tenths to 7.6 (6+), but has been #1 since September. The loss, however, ends three straight progressive months for an overall +1.8 (6.1 – 7.0 – 7.4 – 7.9, 6+). In addition, October’s 7.9 represents the highest 6+-share for WJJK in the PPM-era. Prior to August, WJJK was without an increase in five successive survey periods for a collective -1.6 (7.7 – 7.2 – 6.5 – 6.5 – 6.3 – 6.1, 6+). Four increases in a row by Emmis-owned WFNI (1.7 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 3.0 – 3.1, #14 to #13, 6+) account for a +1.4 and enable “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center” to match the 3.1 it logged in March 2016. As a result of a one-half share increase (4.3 – 4.8, 6+), Radio One urban AC WTLC-FM “106.7 – Indy’s R&B Leader” jumps from tenth to eighth. Following gains of one-half share in September and six-tenths in October, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WKLU relinquishes that entire +1.1 and an additional six-tenths more (6.4 – 6.9 – 7.5 – 5.8, -1.7, 6+), shifting from second to sixth. It is the first time Indianapolis’ version of “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is below a six-share (6+) since December’s 5.6. Although unchanged at #7, Emmis adult contemporary WYXB sputters for the third time in a row for an overall -1.4 (6.9 – 6.5 – 5.9 – 5.5, 6+) with “Soft Rock B-105.7” recording its weakest 6+-share (5.5) in five years (5.3, November 2012). Down seven-tenths (4.9 – 4.2, 6+) co-owned news/talk WIBC not only has its lowest 6+-share since April’s 3.9, “93.1 Indy’s News Center” departs the top ten (#8 to #11). Even though it returns in its entirety the six-tenths it racked up in September and October (3.1 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.1, 6+) Radio One CHR WNOW “100.9 Radio Now” carries on at #13. In four consecutive downward moves (4.4 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.3, 6+), rhythmic CHR sibling WHHH “Hot 96.3 – All Hip-Hop and R&B” (unchanged at #12) is an overall -1.1.

4) Milwaukee – To invoke a bit of sports vernacular, this Wisconsin market’s November 2017 sweep is punctuated by upsets. Over the course of the last 42 ratings periods, iHeartMedia-owned WMIL “FM 106.1 Milwaukee’s Best Country” has prevailed over Scripps’ WKTI “94.5 KTI Country,” but that streak is finally halted. Even though WKTI is without an increase for the third time in a row for a collective -.4 (4.8 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4, 6+), it not only advances from ninth to eighth – “94.5 KTI Country” bypasses WMIL, which falters by seven-tenths (5.0 – 4.3, 6+), trading places with WKTI. Immediately in advance of its current trending, WKTI posted three straight gains for a collective +1.1 (3.7 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.8, 6+). Up or flat in four straight sweeps for a net +1.4 (5.1 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.5 – 6.5, 6+), WMIL is now a combined -2.2 in September, October, and November (6.5 – 5.7 – 5.0 – 4.3, 6+). An even more staggering situation occurs in CHR as, for the first time in the PPM-era, iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 Now” (4.0, +.8, #14 to #11, 6+) catches Entercom-owned WXSS “103.7 Kiss FM” (4.4 – 4.0, -.4, #9 to #11, 6+). Locked on 3.2 (6+) in August, September, and October, “Now” reaches the four-share level (4.0, 6+) for the first time in more than five years (4.1, September 2012). This is the 11th sweep in succession that “Kiss” has been between 4.4 – 4.9 (6+). By contrast, it truly is a tossup in the news/talk arena between Scripps-owned WTMJ “Radio 620 Wisconsin’s Radio Station” and iHeartMedia’s WISN “News/Talk 1130.” In the most recent 12 ratings sweeps (December 2016 to October 2017, each station has prevailed six times. In November 2017 though, it is WISN (fourth to second, 6+) that emerges victorious over WTMJ (7.3 – 6.4, -.9, second to fourth, 6+) as the two trade places; WISN is +1.0 in four straight gains (6.0 – 6.1 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.0, 6+), while WTMJ was a combined +1.3 August – September – October (6.0 – 6.1 – 7.3, 6+) and registered its best 6+-stat (7.3) since December 2015’s 8.2. Flat at #6, iHeartMedia urban contemporary WKKV “V-100.7 Milwaukee’s Only Hip-Hop and R&B” is up one-tenth to 5.5 (6+), halting four consecutive months without an increase for an overall -2.0 (7.4 – 7.1 – 5.9 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+); October’s 5.4 was its lowest 6+-share since August 2016 (5.4, as well). On top for the 32ndconsecutive ratings period, classic hits-oldies sibling WRIT “95.7 Big FM – Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits” (+.6, 6+) continues a down/up pattern that began in May (10.3 – 9.9 – 10.7 – 9.6 – 9.8 – 9.4 – 10.0, 6+). There is a bit of good news as well as some slightly bad news for Saga Communications’ WHQG “102.9 The Hog – Everything That Rocks,” which advances from #3 to a tie at #2 – but – is off one-tenth to (7.0, 6+), curtailing three straight gains that netted +2.2 (4.9 – 5.4 – 5.9 – 7.1, 6+). October’s 7.1 represents the highest 6+-share for “The Hog” since it began appearing in print in December 2014. On the strength of four increases in a row (4.6 – 5.1 – 5.5 – 6.0 – 6.5, 6+), co-owned WKLH “96.5 Milwaukee’s Hometown Rock” (steady at #5) is an overall +1.9 since August and has its best 6+-showing since January (6.5, as well). Dropping from #12 to #14, Milwaukee Radio Alliance adult contemporary WLDB “B-93.3” is -1.4 in three consecutive dips (4.3 – 3.7 – 3.4 – 2.9, 6+).

5) Nashville – By replicating October’s +.8, Cumulus Media’s WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon” (4.3 – 5.1 – 5.9, 6+) jumps from ninth to sixth and registers its best 6+ showing since 6.0 in October 2016. Recouping 20% of October’s -.5 (3.2 – 3.3, +.1, 6+) similarly-formatted sibling WKDF “103.3 Nash FM” carries on at #13. Following a combined half-share increase in July and August, “Nash FM” was -.6 in September. Elsewhere in the country format, iHeartMedia’s WSIX “The Big 98 – Nashville’s #1 for New Country” (seventh to ninth) continues an alternating down/up pattern that began in February (5.5 – 5.4 – 6.1 – 5.3 – 5.5 – 5.4 – 5.6 – 5.1 – 5.5 – 5.1, 6+). Off one-half share in September, “The Big 98” had its lowest 6+-share since “Holiday” 2016’s 5.0. Unchanged at #21, co-owned classic country WSIX-HD2 is up two-tenths (.8 – 1.0 (6+), while Ryman Hospitality Properties classic country WSM-AM “650 AM – The Most Famed Country Music Station in the World,” which had a 1.8 (#16, 6+) in June is unlisted for the fifth consecutive sweep. Stuck on 3.4 (6+) in August and September before moving to 3.2 (6+) in October, Cromwell Group alternative-formatted WBUZ “102.9 The Buzz” hangs out a +.6 to 3.8, inching up from #13 to #12 (6+). In October, WAY Media contemporary Christian WAYM surrendered 80% (1.2, -.8, 6+) of a collective +1.0 from three straight increases which doubled its 6+-share since June (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.7 – 2.0, 6+). Now, “WAY-FM Uplifting-Upbeat-Real” bounces back with a half-share gain to 1.7 (6+) and continues at #16. Conversely, Educational Media Foundation’s similarly-formatted WLVU “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is off eight-tenths (3.3 – 2.5, #12 to #14, 6+). Improving by one-half share (in addition to WAYM) and cracking the top twenty in a three-way tie at #17 is Cromwell Group sports talk WPRT “102.5 The Game” (1.3, 6+), which had lost two-thirds of its 6+-share owing to five straight down or flat trends (2.4 – 1.8 – .9 – .9 – .9 – .8, 6+). Steady at #10, Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WGFX “104.5 The Zone” falters by two-tenths to 4.8 (6+), thus ending a string of three straight increases that produced a +2.3 for the flagship of the NFL’s Tennessee Titans (2.7 – 3.2 – 4.0 – 5.0, 6+). October’s 5.0 was its highest 6+-share since January’s 5.3. Prior to a one-half share increase in May, “The Zone” spiraled by -4.3 in six successive decreases (7.6 – 6.8 – 5.9 – 5.3 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.3, 6+). Over and above registering its fourth straight surge for an overall +1.3 matching April’s 7.7 (6.4 – 6.5 – 6.7 – 7.4 – 7.7, 6+), Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA “Mix 92.9 – Your Life, Your Music” marches from second to first. April was the last time “Mix” occupied the pacesetter position. Dislodged from the top spot after two months there and shifting to second is iHeartMedia urban contemporary WUBT “101.1 The Beat – Nashville’s Home for Hip-Hop and R&B” (flat at 7.5, 6+). In October, “The Beat” forfeited two-thirds of September’s +1.5 (8.5 – 7.5, –1.0, 6+); September’s 8.5 was its highest 6+-share since July 2015’s 8.4. When “The Beat” gained four-tenths in August, it ended three successive downward moves that accounted for a loss of nine-tenths (7.5 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 6.6, 6+). A combined +1.2 in September and October to 6.4, its best 6+-share in the PPM-era, Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” returns more than half that increase with a -.7, tumbling from fifth to seventh (5.7, 6+). At the same time, Cumulus Media news/talk WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” drops six-tenths and departs the top ten (5.0 – 4.4, tie at #10 to #11, 6+). The market’s two CHR rivals each erode by six-tenths: iHeartMedia CHR WRVW “107.5 The River” is flat at #3 (7.2 – 6.6, 6+) and Midwest Communications’ WNFN “106.7 Nashville’s New Hit Music” remains at #15 (3.0 – 2.4, 6+). Off by six-tenths as well is WNFN’s adult hits sibling WCJK “Jack-FM,” which has the same (6+) profile as “The River” (7.2 – 6.6, steady at #3, 6+).

7) Norfolk – It is another benchmark ratings period for Entercom urban AC WVKL “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today,” which – in addition to being #1 for the 11th time in a row – logs a +.8 to 14.6, the highest 6+-stat reached by anyNorfolk station in the PPM-era. The “old” mark of 14.2 was set just two sweeps ago – by WVKL. Before slipping by one-half share in October, WVKL – which earlier was on top for 55 consecutive ratings periods – posted three straight improvements accounting for a +2.4 (11.8 – 12.0 – 13.4 – 13.7 – 14.2, 6+). “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” registers a 6+-share of 11.0 or higher for the 19th time in the last 20 ratings periods. Following five straight decreases which resulted in a cumulative loss of -1.8 or approximately 64% of its 12+-share (2.8 – 2.7 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.2 – 1.0, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic hot AC WMOV “Movin’ 107.7 – The Rhythm of Hampton Roads” adds three-tenths to 1.3 (6+) and inches up from #12 to #11. The August – September – October – November 6+-topline for Saga Communications’ WNOR “FM 99 Rocks” is 8.6 – 8.2 – 8.2 – 8.2 – 8.6 (unchanged at #2, 6+). Locked on 6.4 (6+) in September and October after August’s 6.5 (6+), co-owned WAFX sputters by six-tenths to 5.8, its lowest 6+-stat since 5.5 in May, but “106.9 The Fox – Hampton Roads’ Classic Rock” carries on at #4. In each of the last six ratings periods (June through November), Entercom adult contemporary WWDE “101.3 2WD” (flat at #5) has recorded either a topline 6+-share of 4.3 or 4.6 (4.3 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.3). Down or flat for the fifth time in a row, WHOV “Smooth 88.1 – The Essence of Hampton University” is a collective -.4 (1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.3 – 1.2, #11 to #12, 6+), while Saga Communications’ adult standards WJOI “1230 AM – Great Songs, Great Memories” is without an increase for the third consecutive ratings period and has lost 70% (-.7) of its 6+-share since August (1.0 – .7 – .5 – .3, 6+).

8) Greensboro – Notwithstanding that iHeartMedia news/talk WPTI remains at #5, the winning ways continue for “94.5 Your News, Talk, & Sports Station,” which posts its fifth consecutive increase for an overall +2.2 (3.3 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 5.5, 6+). The last time WPTI reached the five-share level (6+) was exactly one year ago (5.0, November 2016). Within 4.0 – 4.7 range (6+) in each of the last seven sweeps, co-owned rocker WVBZ “105.7 – Man Up!” hauls out a +.9 to 4.9 (6+) and carries on in eighth-place. Dusting itself off from October’s -.8, Entercom urban AC WQMG responds with a one-half share gain (12.7 – 11.9 – 12.4, 6+). In addition to being #1 for the sixth straight time – and each month this calendar year except April and May – “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School” posts double-digits (6+) for the 12th sweep in a row. It posted a +1.5 in September and June. Steady in the runner-up slot, adult hits cluster-mate WSMW “98.7 Simon (says) We Play Everything” is a combined +2.5 in five straight increases (8.8 – 9.3 – 10.1 – 10.2 – 10.9 – 11.3, 6+) and notches its strongest 6+-share in its PPM-history. In three straight decreases, co-owned country WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” is off by a combined -1.9 (7.7 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 5.8, fifth to sixth, 6+) and falls below a six-share (5.8, 6+) for the first time since March (5.6). Its format rival – iHeartMedia owned WTQR “New Country Q-104.1” remains at #4, but has lost a collective seven-tenths in October and November (7.8 – 7.3 – 7.1, 6+); September’s 7.8 was its highest 6+-share since 7.9 in January 2016. Owing to three losses in a row (7.2 – 7.0 – 6.3 – 5.9, 6+), adult contemporary sibling WMAG is a combined -1.3, yet “99.5 – The Triad’s Best Mix” actually improves from sixth to fifth. While August’s 7.2 was the strongest 6+-stat for WMAG since “Holiday” 2016’s 15.2, 5.9 in November is its lowest since April (5.9, as well). WMAG was +1.5 in three straight improvements (5.7 – 6.5 – 7.1 – 7.2, 6+), immediately after three straight negative trends that accounted for -1.1 (6.8 – 6.7 – 5.9 – 5.7, 6+).

9) West Palm Beach – Improving by one-half share to 4.6 (seventh to fifth, 6+), Alpha Media adult contemporary WEAT halts four straight monthlies without an increase for an overall -2.4 (6.5 – 5.4 – 5.1 – 4.7 – 4.1, 6+). September and October’s 4.1 was the lowest 6+-share for “Sunny” since 3.1 in January 2014. It is now one-tenth behind iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WOLL “Today’s KOOL 105.5” (4.7, -.1, third to fourth, 6+). Plummeting one full-share in September to 4.2, its lowest 6+ showing since 3.9 in July 2011, WOLL regained 60% of that decline (4.8, +.6, 6+). Its 5.2 in August was the station’s highest 6+-share since January (5.9). Flat at 11.2 (6+), Alpha Media hot AC WRMF “97.9 Variety from the 90s and Now” ranks first for the 11th consecutive month. This is its highest 6+-share since November 2015 (11.3). A one-tenth loss in September halted four straight increases that delivered an overall +1.6 (9.3 – 9.4 – 9.5 – 10.4 – 10.9, 6+). Prior to the “Holiday” 2016 report, WRMF was #1 the previous five ratings periods. After three straight gains for an overall +.8 (4.0 – 4.1 – 4.7 – 4.8, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WLDI “Wild 95.5 – The Palm Beaches’ #1 Hit Music Station” regresses by four-tenths to 4.4 (third to sixth, 6+). October 2017 stats for some West Palm Beach stations were readjusted after the October sweep was released.

10) Jacksonville – Following three consecutive decreases for a cumulative -1.3 (4.6 – 4.3 – 3.9 – 3.3, 6+), Renda Broadcasting’s WGNE “99.9 Gator Country” answers with a +1.1 to 4.4 and is back in the top ten (#11 to #9). Nearly eight full-shares ahead of it is iHeartMedia-owned WQIK “99.1 – Jacksonville’s Country,” which – despite a whopping-1.3 (13.6 – 12.3, 6+) – is #1 for the 11th straight time. A combined -1.8 in July and August (12.2 – 11.6 – 10.4, 6+), WQIK followed with an overall +3.2 (10.4 – 11.7 – 13.6, 6+). In fact, October’s 13.6 is its best-ever (6+) PPM-performance, passing the 12.8 it logged in January. Furthermore, its +1.9 in October was the largest (6+) September 2017 – October 2017 increase by any station in the 48 PPM-markets. In the CHR battle here, simultaneous with Cox Media Group-owned WAPE “95.1 Jacksonville’s #1 Hit Music Station” regaining in its entirety the full-share it squandered in October (5.8 – 4.8 – 5.8, eighth to fifth, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WKSL “97.9 Kiss FM” drops two-thirds of October’s +.9 (4.3, -.6, seventh to tenth, 6+). While up a collective six-tenths in July and August (6.0 – 6.3 – 6.6, 6+), WAPE was a combined -1.8 in September and October (6.6 – 5.8 – 4.8, 6+). Prior to November, “Kiss” was +1.5 in three positive spikes in a row (3.4 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.9, 6+) and recorded its highest 6+-share since June 2016 (4.9, as well). Unchanged at #14, the (gospel) HD3 channel of WKSL improves one-half share (2.3 – 2.8, 6+). Continuing to make up substantial ground on its -3.3 in three straight declines (9.6 – 9.1 – 6.4 – 6.3, 6+), Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies outlet WJGL-FM “96.9 The Eagle” is now +2.3 in October and November (6.3 – 7.7, 8.6, 6+), climbing from third to second. The majority of that massive (-3.3) loss came in August when “The Eagle” plummeted by -2.7; WJGL was down one-half share in July after a +.9 in June. Trading places with “The Eagle” is its news/talk cluster-mate WOKV “104.5 – Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic,” which is a combined -2.0 in October and November (9.7 – 8.5 – 7.7, 6+), wiping out September’s +1.3. Prior to September’s 9.7, WOKV last reached the nine-share level in April (9.3, 6+).

11) Memphis – At this time last month, the (6+) difference between iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS “V-101” (10.4, #1, 6+) and Cumulus Media-owned WRBO “103.5 Soul Classics and Today’s R&B” (10. 2, 6+) was a mere two-tenths. Much has changed though as “V-101” explodes by nine-tenths to 11.3 (#1, 6+), but WRBO freefalls by -2.1 to 8.1 (6+) and moves to #3. In the 11 survey periods thus far this calendar year, “V101” has emerged victorious seven times (February, March, May, June, July, October, and November); WRBO has come out on top in January and August; and the two were tied in April and September. Until now, the (6+) difference between the two had been no greater than eight-tenths (once – July). The two were separated by one-half share in June; just two-tenths in January, February, March, May, and October; and only one-tenth in August. In addition to KJMS, Cumulus Media-owned WKIM improves by nine-tenths to 3.5 (#13 to #11, 6+). The +.9 ends four successive sweeps without an increase for a collective -1.1 (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 2.6, 6+) by the station most recently known as “98.9 The Vibe.” Starting on Halloween, however, it began playing all Christmas music as “Christmas 98.9.” In the market’s country tussle, Entercom’s WLFP “94.1 The Wolf” is locked on fluctuations of seven-tenths, as it gains seven-tenths in November after losing seven-tenths in both September and October (3.5 – 2.8 – 2.1 – 2.8, steady at #14, 6+). In September, “The Wolf” concluded three straight increases that accounted for a +1.1 (2.4 – 3.2 – 3.4 – 3.5, 6+). Meanwhile, Cumulus Media’s WGKX “Kix 106 – Today’s Best Country” is a collective -1.4 in three losses in succession (6.3 – 5.5 – 5.4 – 4.9, 6+), slipping from sixth to eighth with its lowest 6+-share since April (4.9, as well). The wild ride continues for iHeartMedia-owned WEGR “Rock 103 – Memphis’ Classic Rock,” which carries on at #10. Specifically, it was +.7 in May (3.0 – 3.7, 6+); -1.3 in June (3.7 – 2.4, 6+); +.7 in August (2.3 – 3.0, 6+); -.7 in September (3.0 – 2.3, 6+); +.7 in October; and picks up (another) +.7 in November (3.0 – 3.7, 6+). Registering its best 6+-performance in exactly one year (5.2, 6+, November 2016), Cumulus Media’s WXMX “Maximum Rock – 98.1 The Max” is up one-half share (4.6 – 5.1, eighth to sixth, 6+).

12) Hartford – An impressive +1.4 (5.6 – 7.0, 6+) propels iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies outlet WHCN to its strongest 6+-stat (7.0) since January’s 7.6 with “105.9 The River” sailing from eighth to third. Steady at #10, Red Wolf Broadcasting alternative WMRQ “Radio 104.1” registers its fourth straight gain for a collective +1.1 (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 3.1 – 3.4, 6+). In addition to setting the pace for the 15th successive ratings period, CBS Radio adult contemporary WRCH “Lite 100.5” is an overall +1.1 via four consecutive sweeps without a loss (9.9 – 10.2 – 10.2 – 10.3 – 11.0, 6+). Prior to July, “Lite” had been in double-digits (6+) eight times in the previous nine sweeps. Its online stream scored a .5 (6+) in four straight survey periods before disappearing in print in August. It returned in September with a .5 (#15, 6+); vanished again in October; and reappears in November with a .5 (#14, 6+). After being down or flat the past three sweeps for a collective -1.5 since July (8.3 – 7.9 – 7.9 – 6.8, 6+), hot AC sibling WTIC-FM rebounds with a +.6 to 7.4 (6+), advancing from third to second; October’s 6.8 was its lowest 6+-share since August 2016’s 6.3. There are more ups and downs for Connecticut Public Broadcasting news/talk WNPR, which was +1.6 in September; -.7 in October; and now +.5 in November (4.7 – 6.3 – 5.6 – 6.1, eighth to seventh, 6+). Prior to September’s 6.3, WNPR had not reached the six-share level (6+) under PPM methodology. Without an increase in the last five sweeps for a collective -2.3 (8.8 – 8.3 – 8.3 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 6.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WWYZ “92-5 Connecticut’s Country Music” falls from second to fourth. Off seven-tenths (6.0 – 5.3, 6+), Connoisseur Media-owned WDRC-FM “102.9 The Whale – Hartford’s Classic Rock” drops from sixth to ninth.

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iHeartMedia and Debt Holders Continue to Negotiate But Differences Remain. The biggest hurdle in resolving the massive debt that iHeartMedia is shouldering is that the group of lenders led by Franklin Resources is seeking a pre-packaged bankruptcy that would leave senior bondholders and term loan lenders with the bulk of the shares of the radio and outdoor businesses. But, iHM wants to restructure about $15.5 billion of the $20 billion of debt out of court. iHM’s counter-offer reportedly includes about 50% equity in iHeartMedia and an even greater stake in Clear Channel Outdoor, but no “pre-pack.” The New York Postreports that “one person close to the talks said, with the current proposal not being well received, there is a 75 percent chance of a court-supervised restructuring.” The Wall Street Journal says that where the two sides are in agreement is that senior creditors holding some $12.8 billion in priority guarantee notes and term loans would receive between $6 billion and $7 billion in new secured notes.

CBS News Radio Reveals New Programming at First-Ever Upfront Presentation. This is the first upfront presentation – taking place at the CBS Broadcast Center in NYC – by CBS News Radio to advertising executives and it includes the unveiling of new original news, finance and entertainment programming. Among the new offerings that will launch on January 1, 2018 are: daily one-minute features from CBS Television programs “Entertainment Tonight,” “Inside Edition,” “The Doctors,” “Dr. Phil,” and “Rachael Ray”; a daily one-minute feature and a two-hour weekend show hosted by CBS News business analyst Jill Schlesinger called “Jill on Money”; a one-minute feature and two-hour weekend show produced by veterans for veterans and their families called “Eye on Veterans”; and a new 90-second commentary from Dave Ross. CBS News CFO Charles Pavlounis comments, “We’re excited to share these new and exclusive program offerings, as well as our continuing lineup of original reporting with our colleagues in the advertising community and our affiliate stations. These programs allow our affiliated stations to deliver original, engaging content to their dedicated listeners, while our clients are able to gain maximum exposure for their messages on news, talk and music formats around the country.” “Welcome Home” is the theme of the upfront event that is being co-hosted with Skyview Networks, the distribution, inventory management and sales partner of CBS News Radio.

Townsquare Media Signs Kevin Miller to Four-Year Extension. Talk radio pro Kevin Miller will continue serving as brand manager and morning drive personality at Townsquare Media’s KIDO, Boise for the next four years after signing a contract renewal with the station. The station says, “For Miller, radio is community, using his daily show and digital platform to find solutions for the many Treasure Valley community needs. He’s been known to go ‘all in’ on issues dear to his heart, including a week-long, live-in fundraising campaign for the Canyon County Animal Shelter when it faced the threat of closure. The ‘Kevin In the Kennel’ live broadcast was nationally recognized by Rachael Ray and the ASPCA, resulting in a $25,000 donation to save the shelter and thousands in pet adoptions.” Townsquare SVP Kevin Godwin comments, “Kevin Miller epitomizes what we look for in live and local talent. His work ethic, his commitment to providing quality local content to our audience and his ability to connect to those things most important to the community is second to none. The extraordinary current political, financial and cultural events of the time demand experience and a greater commitment to our listeners, advertisers, and the business community at large. I’m certain Kevin and ‘KIDO Talk Radio’ will continue to deliver on that commitment.”

Bob Ramsey Returns to St. Louis Airwaves on KTRS. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Dan Caesar reports that market sports media figure Bob Ramsey is returning to the radio after an absence of about 18 months. He’s joining the KTRS evening show hosted by sports director Brendan Wiese. It airs from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm and Ramsey is expected to be a co-host “two or three times a week.” Post-Dispatch sports columnist Ben Frederickson is also joining the program. Caesar reports that Ramsey has been working with crosstown KFNS owner Randy Markel as a “point man for a youth baseball complex…Markel is trying to develop near the Lake of the Ozarks.” Read the Post-Dispatch piece here.

TALKERS News Notes. The Sporting News’ Michael McCarthy is reporting that there are more job cuts on the horizon for ESPN – including the radio division – and the reason is the need for cost-cutting. McCarthy’s report says between 40 and 60 positions could be eliminated in late November or early December and that they could be both on-air TV/radio people and production staffers…..Legendary sports media figure Dan Patrick is getting his name on an institute of higher learning, specifically, his partnership with Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida will open the Dan Patrick School of Sportscasting at the college. Through the school, students will be able to earn undergraduate bachelor degrees. The FOX Sports Radio and NBC Sports personality consummated the deal via his agents at Playbook, Inc. Patrick is expected to call on his numerous contacts in the industry to participate in guest teaching roles…..Jacobs Media’s Seth Resler is launching a new podcast dedicated to the renaissance of Detroit titled, “The D Brief.” With co-host and local stand-up comic Mike Geeter, Resler will focus on the arts and entertainment scene, covering everything from concerts to comedy to film, festivals, food and drink. Fred Jacobs comments, “When Seth first moved to Detroit to join Jacobs Media, he took a six-month lease. He never envisioned living here permanently, but fell in love with Detroit. He’s been a podcaster since the early days, and marrying his passion for the Motor City with his podcasting skills is a perfect match.”

Trump Tax Cuts Top News/Talk Story for Week of October 23-27. The tax reform proposal from the Trump Administration and the GOP was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the Clinton campaign and DNC funded Trump-Russia dossier story. Coming in at #3 was the variety of sexual harassment accusations being leveled against various public figures, followed by the Obama Adminstration’s deal with Russia-backed Uranium One at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week’s entire chart here.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Boston triple A WXRV “The River” names Massachusetts native Annalisa its new afternoon drive host. Annalisa previously spent 20 years in the Bay Area hosting the midday show at Cumulus Media’s triple A KFOG. In the Boston market, she’s also served with rock WAAF and hosted the morning show at classic rock WZLX. WXRV general manager Donald St. Sauveur states, “Annalisa’s such a wonderful talent and a passionate professional. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of the thousands of artists and bands that ‘The River’ features on a daily basis. She shares stories about the songs that are the soundtrack of our audience’s lives in an irreverent and witty way that’s authentic and approachable.”…..Rock KISW, Seattle is presenting its third annual “Live Day” at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma on November 16. On this “Live Day,” both the morning drive “BJ & Migs” and the PM drive “The Men’s Room” will be performed completely live – nothing at all will be recorded – commercials, sound effects, nor music. The show hosts will be assisted by a cast of local musicians, Foley artists (the ones who make sound effects), and comedians. Entercom Seattle VP, programming and operations Dave Richards states, “Doing two full shows completely live clearly wasn’t enough of a challenge for KISW. This year, we’ll take ‘Live Day’ to a full stage production in front of a live audience.”…..Beasley Media Group announces Gregory Simonson is named the general sales manager for the company’s Fayetteville, North Carolina cluster that includes: adult contemporary WAZZ, country WKML, urban contemporary WZFX, rhythmic oldies WUKS, and adult hits WFLB. Most recently, Simonson has been Southeast regional VP at Inc.’s iAd division…..Milwaukee’s hot AC WMYX “99.1 The Mix” hopes to cheer up Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers – out for the season nursing a broken collarbone – by getting fans to sign the banner you see at left being held by morning show hosts Elizabeth and Radar…..WAY Media Network program director Todd Stach announces that Steve Shore is named network music director. Shore is a WAY Media and Christian music radio industry pro, having served in various roles at WAY-FM for the past 15 years. He will continue his role as assistant network program director while adding music director duties.

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Report: iHeartMedia Creditor May Submit Plan to Avoid Bankruptcy This Week. According to a story in the New York Post, Franklin Resources – holder of $2.3 billion of iHeartMedia’s $20 billion of debt – may propose a restructuring plan for iHM that may require controlling equity in the company and more cash guarantees. Franklin Resources had been holding firm against any refinancing, possibly with the hope that the company would be forced into bankruptcy and Franklin could then “cash out” after the sale of iHM assets. But the Post story indicates that Franklin adviser PJT Partners is recommending that Franklin not push iHM into bankruptcy, hence the report of a possible debt-for-equity deal. The report also hints that current CEO Bob Pittman will remain in his position. Read the Post story here.

Cash Infusion for TuneIn. According to Bloomberg, digital audio aggregator TuneIn has just raised another $50 million in investment, reportedly from Marker LLC, IVP and Comcast Ventures – which led the funding – plus Sequoia Capital, Causeway Media Partners LLC and General Catalyst Partners LLC. Bloomberg writes that so far TuneIn has raised $140 million. Chief executive officer John Donham says, “Two years ago we launched a premium subscription with a play by play of every game from every league, home and away, with worldwide rights for every connected device. It turns out those deals are not cheap. We’re excited about building a subscription base. But in the meantime, we’re paying for that content.” Donham declined to tell Bloomberg how many paying subscribers the service has but stated that “the model under which we operate has a very clear path to profitability versus most in [the] streaming audio space.” The 15-year-old service has yet to turn a profit. Read the Bloomberg piece here.

Connolly New Head of Advertising Sales for SiriusXM. Moving from ESPN where he was VP of advertising sales and affiliates sales for the ESPN Audio Network to SiriusXM is Mike Connolly. He is the satcaster’s new head of advertising sales, taking over for Bette Rockmore who is taking a teaching position at Pace University. A press release states that Connolly “brings broad experience working with varied on-air audio content in his three decades in media sales.” SiriusXM president and chief content officer Scott Greenstein comments, “Mike is a proven ad industry executive and we are excited to have him lead SiriusXM’s ad sales team and continue its strong sustained growth. Mike’s extensive experience in audio entertainment will be of crucial importance to SiriusXM as our programming depth and variety expand and the national audience of subscribers and listeners continues to rise.”

TALKERS News Notes. All this week, David van Camp will broadcast live from Guam on the “Markley and van Camp” show based at Alpha Media’s news/talk WMBD, Peoria, and heard on KXL, Portland; KFQD, Anchorage; as well as Tyler Media’s KOKC, Oklahoma City. Speaking about broadcasting from Guam, van Camp says, “What I’m most interested in is talking to everyday people. What do they think about when they see all of this coverage when they see how much focus there is on their home? And, really, just tell their story.”…..This Sunday (8/20), CBS Sports Radio will broadcast a live, special edition of “The Taz Show” from 11:00 pm to 2:00 am ET following the WWE Summer Slam at the Barclays Center earlier that evening. Former pro wrestler Taz will talk about “the results of the night’s championship matches, including the winners, losers and biggest surprises.” CBS RADIO stations carrying the program will include WFAN, New York; WSCR, Chicago; KRLD, Dallas; and more…..College football legend Steve Spurrier joins SiriusXM as a college football analyst. Beginning August 15, Spurrier will appear three times per week on the SiriusXM College Sports Nation channel.

Charlottesville Violence/Trump Response, Bannon’s White House Status, U.S.-North Korea Tensions, NFL Players Sit During Anthem, Taylor Swift Suit, Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Sequel Film, MLB Action, and NFL Pre-season Games Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The death and injuries at the Charlottesville white supremacist rally and criticism of President Trump’s response; speculation about the future of White House strategist Stephen K. Bannon and reports that Trump believes Bannon may be involved in leaks; the ongoing threats by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and President Trump’s responses; the failure to stand during the National Anthem by Oakland Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch and Seattle Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett prior to pre-season games; a judge’s decision to throw out David Mueller’s suit against Taylor Swift and the remaining aspects of the legal battle; Al Gore’s new global warming film An Inconvenient Sequel debuts; Major League Baseball action, and the weekend’s pre-season NFL games were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend.

Longtime WBZ, Boston/CBS RADIO Personality Neil Chayet Passes. Talk and news radio listeners across the country knew attorney Neil Chayet as host of the long-running legal feature “Looking at the Law,” that was heard on CBS RADIO’s WBZ, Boston and on CBS stations across the country. Chayet passed away on Friday (8/11) after a nine-month battle with small cell cancer. He was 78. He retired from the radio program in June due to his illness.

Tubbs Exits KOA, Denver. According to KCNC-TV, Denver, morning personality Steffan Tubbs has been let go by iHeartMedia and will “no longer be part of ‘Colorado’s Morning News on KOA.” Tubbs was arrested on July 30 on a domestic violence charge after authorities suspected him of harassing and threatening his ex-girlfriend. He has pleaded not guilty and will be back in court for a trial on October 18. The station issued a memo stating, “The morning show will continue on schedule with April Zesbaugh and guest host (KCNC-TV weatherman) Ed Greene beginning the week of 8/14.”

Music Radio News and Career Moves. WQDR, Raleigh morning personality Mike Wheless celebrates 25 years with the Curtis Media Group country station. “The Q Morning Crew” consists of Wheless, Janie Carothers, and Marty “The One-Man Party.” The program has won industry awards, including the Country Music Association “Personality of the Year” and Academy of Country Music “Personality of the Year” honors. Curtis Media Group president and COO Trip Savery comments, “Mike Wheless is a tremendous contributor to WQDR’s ongoing success. Mike has grown from overnight jock to the foundation of the most successful morning show in the region and as he celebrates a quarter century in that role, we all acknowledge his passion, talent, and success.”…..iHeartMedia’s rock KBRQ, Waco, Texas “102.5 The Bear” names Aaron Zytle host of the “AZ in the Morning Rumble” program. He takes over for Keith Junker, a.k.a. Fish, who exited the radio biz. Zytle’s program will be simulcast to iHM’s Killeen active rocker KLFX “107.3 The Fox.” Zytle was most recently with Bahakel Communications in Colorado Springs programming alternative KRXP and serving as afternoon personality…..Mark Shepperd is the new afternoon drive host at Jerry Lee-owned adult contemporary WBEB, Philadelphia “Today’s 101.1 More FM.” Shepperd assumes the daypart previously held by Logan, now with Fort Myers Broadcasting Company handling mornings at adult contemporary WINK-FM.

July PPM Takeaways. Below are TALKERS magazine editor Mike Kinosian‘s “Twelve Takeaways” based on the July PPM ratings information released by Nielsen Audio last week. The 12 markets addressed today are: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). Nielsen’s July 2017 survey period covered June 22 – July 19. Meanwhile, you can view all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here.

TWELVE TAKEAWAYS

1) New York – Albeit the net gain is just two-tenths, this nonetheless represents the fourth successive sweep in which WPLJ “95.5 PLJ” has not had a decrease (2.4 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.6, 6+). As a result, the Cumulus Media hot AC climbs from #15 to #13, catching its format rival – CBS Radio’s WNEW-FM “Fresh 102.7” – which is off one-tenth (2.7 – 2.6, flat at #13). “Fresh” had held the advantage over WPLJ in each of the last seven ratings periods. Steady at #8, iHeartMedia urban contemporary WWPR “Power 105.1 New York’s Hip-Hop and R&B” is without a decrease for the sixth successive sweep (3.6 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 4.2 – 4.2, 6+) and is up six-tenths in that stretch. Not only does iHeartMedia adult contemporary cluster-mate WLTW register its third straight gain for a cumulative +.7 (6.0 – 6.1 – 6.5 – 6.7, 6+), “106.7 Lite FM” finishes at #1 for the third consecutive time. A one-tenth increase by “Lite” in May halted four straight declines that produced a collective -7.3 since “Holiday” 2016 (13.3 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 6.2 – 6.0, 6+). One-tenth off the top and repeating in the runner-up slot is CBS Radio classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM “New York’s Greatest Hits,” which posts its fourth successive up or flat trend for a combined +.7 (5.9 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.6, 6+). After logging three straight increases for a collective gain of eight-tenths since March (1.7 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR regresses by one-half share to 2.0 (6+), tumbling from #15 to #19. June 2017’s 2.5 was the highest 6+-stat for the New York Mets flagship in nearly seven years when it reached 2.6 (#19) in November 2010. Having gained nine-tenths in June to 3.0 (6+), WYNC-FM put an end to four straight downward trends that produced a -.6 (2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.1, 6+); however, like WOR – the public news/talk station drops one-half share (3.0 – 2.5, 6+) and shifts from #12 to #15. Meanwhile, Cumulus Media news/talk WABC is down or flat for the sixth straight time yet the net loss is just two-tenths (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.2, 6+) and it is unchanged at #22. Following back-to-back 2.4 showings (6+) in April and May, CBS Radio all-news WCBS-AM registers a 2.7 (6+) in June and July, moving up from #13 in June to #12. Flat at #6, co-owned and similarly formatted WINS is a collective -1.1 in four straight dips (5.8 – 5.3 – 5.1 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+), while iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WKTU (ninth to tenth) is -.2 in four consecutive sweeps without an increase (4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+).

2) Los Angeles – The 12 stations ranking between #9 and #20 in July 2017 are separated by just eight-tenths of a share Within those rankers, there are ties at #11, #13, #15, and #17. Jumping from #18 to #11, Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish contemporary KXOL “Mega 96.3 – LA’s #1 Party Station” cobbles together five gains in succession for a +.9 (2.0 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.9, 6+). Three straight increases by regional Mexican cluster-mate KLAX have yielded a +1.1 (1.6 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.7, 6+), with “97.9 La Raza” notching its strongest 6+-share since February 2016’s 2.9 and reentering the top twenty at #15. Down or flat in each of the past four months for a -.4 (3.9 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KLVE “107.5 K-Love” (unchanged at #6) busts out a July 2017 gain more than twice that margin (+.9, 6+) and has its highest 6+-share since last October’s 4.5. Climbing back into the top ten (#11 to #9), Meruelo Media Holdings rhythmic CHR KPWR “Power 106” gains a collective half-share in four successive up or flat trends (2.6 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.1, 6+). Unchanged at #10, CBS Radio CHR KAMP “Amp” hasn’t had a decrease in the past five sweeps (2.4 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+). Co-owned alternative KROQ moves from #19 to #17 and is up or flat for the seventh consecutive monthly for a +.7 in that period (1.8 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+). Conversely, its format rival, iHeartMedia’s KYSR-FM “ALT 98.7 – LA’s New Alternative,” is down or flat for the fifth time in a row for a collective loss of one-half share (3.2 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.7, 6+) and slips from #11 to #15. As a result, the 1.5-share (6+) advantage KYSR held over KROQ in December is now down to two-tenths. This is the fifth successive ratings period without erosion for Mount Wilson FM Broadcasters’ KKGO “Go Country 105” (#14 to #13) which has generated a cumulative gain of six-tenths since January (2.2 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+). Stuck on 5.8 (6+) in May and June, iHeartMedia hot AC “My-FM” picks up three-tenths to 6.1 (6+) and is #1 for the sixth consecutive time. When “My-FM” dropped one-tenth in April, it ended three straight uptrends (4.7 – 5.1 – 5.2 – 5.7, 6+), which netted a combined full-share gain. February’s +.1 (5.1 – 5.2, 6+) was enough for it to depart the runner-up slot it held the previous three sweeps and take over at #1. Trending a very consistent 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.3 – 5.4 – 5.3 (6+) March 2017 to July 2017, CBS Radio smooth AC KTWV “The Wave” occupies the runner-up position for the fifth straight sweep. Similarly, the January 2017 through July 2017 6+-trending for iHeartMedia news/talk KFI (eighth to seventh) is 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.4. Owing to six straight decreases (2.3 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.4, 6+), Taxi Productions urban AC KJLH (#25 to #24) is a collective -.9. Not only is KNX without an increase for the fifth straight time for a loss of nine-tenths (3.8 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 2.9, 6+), the CBS Radio all-news property exits the top ten (#8 to #11).

3) Chicago – It’s a strong “Windy City” sweep for the market’s two country stations as each improve by seven-tenths. In the case of CBS Radio-owned WUSN, adds a +.7 in July to June’s half share increase as “US-99 Chicago’s Hottest Country” zooms from ninth to fifth. In addition to notching its fourth straight up or flat trend (2.6 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 3.4 – 4.1, 6+), WUSN has its best 6+-showing since the 4.1 it recorded in November 2014. Meanwhile, dating back to the first of the year, its format rival – iHeartMedia’s WEBG “Big 95.5 Chicago’s New Country” – was trending 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.1 (January 2017 – June 2017, 6+), but jumps to 2.8, catapulting from #22 to #14. This represents the fourth consecutive time urban AC sibling WVAZ is without a decrease for a +1.1 (5.6 – 5.6 – 5.8 – 6.1 – 6.7, 6+). Moreover, “V-103 Today’s R&B and Throwbacks” is #1 for the sixth successive month. In the runner-up slot from February through June, CBS Radio all-news operation WBBM-AM slips to third and is down or flat for the sixth straight sweep for a collective -1.9 (6.3 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.7 – 4.4, 6+). Jumping over it is Hubbard hot AC WTMX “Mix,” which picks up one-tenth to 4.7 (6+), thus snapping at five a consecutive string of sweeps without an increase that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (5.3 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.6 – 4.6, 6+). Similarly-formatted, iHeartMedia-owned WLIT “93.9 My-FM The Best Variety” is -1.3 via four successive declines (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 2.8 – 2.4, 6+), spiraling from #15 to #20. For the fourth successive time, its urban contemporary sibling WGCI-FM “Chicago’s #1 for Hip-Hop and R&B” gains two-tenths (2.6 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.2 – 3.4, 6+) and advances from tenth to ninth. Unchanged at #4, Hubbard-owned WDRV “97.1 The Drive – Chicago’s Classic Rock” registers its fifth consecutive up or flat trend (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 4.2, 6+) and is up eight-tenths since February. Following five straight (modest) increases that netted a full-share (2.7 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.7, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican WOJO “105.1 Que Buena” drops three-tenths to 3.4 (eighth to ninth, 6+). Tied at #18 doing various shades of adult contemporary are WRME-LP (2.9 – 2.7, down from #14 in June, 6+) and Hubbard’s WSHE, #17 in June and down or flat for the fourth straight month for a net loss of one half-share (3.2 – 3.0 – 2.9- 2.7 – 2.7, 6+). Slipping from sixth to eighth, CBS Radio sports talk WSCR “The Score” notches a 3.7 for the third time in the last four sweeps. Down or flat for the fifth straight ratings period for a collective -1.4 (4.2 – 4.2 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 2.8, 6+), after three consecutive sweeps without a loss for a +.5 (3.7 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 4.2, 6+), TribuneMedia Company news/talk WGN drops from #11 to #14. The 15 stations occupying rankers 9 through 23 in July 2017 are separated by 1.2 shares (2.2 – 3.4, 6+). Trending 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.6, April – May – June (6+), Window to the World classical WFMT is unlisted in July.

4) San Francisco – Having registered a 2.5 (6+) in four of the previous five ratings periods, Entercom urban AC KBLX added two-tenths in June; “102.9 The Bay’s R&B” follows in July with a gain of six-tenths (2.5 – 2.7 – 3.3, 6+) and cracks the top ten (#12 to #9). The last time KBLX reached the three-share level (6+) was in April 2016 with a 3.0. Its sports talk sibling KGMZ “95.7 The Game” though falters by one-full share (2.1 – 1.1, 6+) as the Oakland A’s flagship disappears from the top twenty (#18 to #25). May’s +.3 by “The Game” put an end to its 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.7 (6+) trending. At the same time, Entercom-owned San Francisco Giants flagship KNBR “The Sports Leader,” off for the third time in a row (4.2 – 4.1 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+) for a cumulative -1.0, slips from eighth to tenth. Notwithstanding that Cumulus Media classic rocker KSAN “107.7 The Bone” remains at #14, its string of consecutive ratings periods without a decrease extends to seven (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.7, 6+). The October 2016 through July 2017 6+-line for iHeartMedia urban contemporary KMEL “#1 for Hip-Hop and R&B in the Bay Area” is 3.3 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 3.0 (#11 to #12). Finishing first and second (6+) are stations in the news/talk (KQED-FM) and news genres (CBS Radio-owned KCBS-AM, down for the third straight time, 6.3 – 6.1 – 6.0 – 5.8, 6+), while adult contemporary is at #3 and #4 with Entercom’s KOIT-FM, off for the third consecutive time, 5.5 – 5.3 – 5.0 – 4.8, 6+ and iHeartMedia-owned KISQ “98.1 The Breeze” (4.1, -.2, 6+) Hot AC is represented at #5 and #6 with iHeartMedia’s KIOI “Star 101.3” (4.0, -.3, 6+) and CBS Radio-owned KLLC “Alice @ 97.3” (3.7, -.2, 6+), while contemporary hit radio occupies #7 and #8 with KMVQ and iHeartMedia’s KYLD “Wild 94.9 – The Bay’s #1 Hit Music Station” (3.4, +.2, 6+). Frozen on 3.8 (6+) in February and March and then on 3.2 (6+) in April and May, CBS Radio’s KMVQ slipped to 3.0 in June but “99.7 – New Hit Music Now” bounces back with a one-half share gain to 3.5 (6+), leaping from tenth to seventh. With a spike of four-tenths to 7.1 (6+), KQED-FM halts at four a successive streak without an increase that produced a -1.0 (7.7 – 7.3 – 7.0 – 6.7 – 6.7, 6+). Moreover, just as it has been every month this calendar year, the Northern California Public Broadcasting facility is on top in San Francisco. Slipping from seventh to tenth, Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “100.3 Mas Variedad” forfeits four-tenths to 3.2 (6+), ending three straight increases that netted nine-tenths (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.3 – 3.6, 6+). While it remains at #21, Cumulus Media news/talk KSFO is without an increase for the sixth time in a row for a loss of more than one-full share (2.8 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.7, 6+). This is the fourth straight month that Entercom-owned KUFX “98.5 K-Fox – The South Bay’s Classic Rock” is unlisted in San Francisco, but it still appears in print in San Jose (see below). The station’s March 2017 6+-San Francisco stat was 1.5.

5) Dallas – Over and above halting three straight negative trends that yielded a loss of eight-tenths (3.9 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 3.1, 6+) CBS Radio adult hits KJKK “100.3 Jack-FM” (tenth to sixth) recaptures that loss in its entirety – and two-tenths to spare- with a +1.0 to 4.1. This is the strongest 6+-performance for Dallas’ version of “Jack” since last December’s 4.2. In what we believe are the first trends in the PPM-era for The City of Dallas’ WRR, the classical facility checks in at #21 with a 2.1 (6+), which represents a one-half share increase over June’s (unlisted) 1.6 (6+). Up two-tenths to 2.3 (#20 to #18, 6+), Northwest Texas Public Broadcasting news/talk KERA curtails at four a successive string of down or flat trends that produced a loss of one-half share (2.6 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+). A mere two-tenths of a share separates the top three July 2017 finishers, which includes Cumulus Media country outlet KPLX, while down one-half share (6.1 – 5.6, 6+), is #1 for the seventh successive time. This, however, is the lowest 6+-share for “The Wolf” since the “Holiday” 2016 report’s 4.7. Right on its heels and remaining at #2 and #3, respectively, are iHeartMedia CHR and classic rock siblings KHKS “106.1 Kiss-FM” (surrendering half of June’s +.6, 5.8 – 5.5, -.3, 6+) and KZPS “Lone Star 92.5.” After four straight increases that netted nine-tenths (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.5, 6+), “Lone Star 92.5” lost one-tenth in June and is flat in July at 5.4 (6+). On hiatus from the KHKS-originated, syndicated “Kidd Kraddick Show,” Elena Davies remains one of the Season 19 houseguests on CBS-TV’s “Big Brother,” which premiered June 28; “Kiss” was tied for the top spot with KPLX in March. Following June 2017’s +1.1, Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KLTY “94.9 – Your Life … Inspired” relinquishes roughly one-half of it (4.3 – 3.7, -.6, 6+), slipping from fifth to eighth; June 2017’s 4.3 was its strongest 6+-stat since 4.4 in “Holiday” 2015. Without an increase for the sixth time in a row for a collective -1.6 since January (3.6 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 2.0, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WBAP fades from #22 to #24. Three stations are flat at 3.0 and continue to be linked at #11: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK “The Ticket”; iHeartMedia’s KEGL “97.1 The Eagle Rocks”; and Service Broadcasting urban AC KRNB “105.7 Smooth R&B.” Progressing from #17 to join them at #11 is Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KDXX “Latino Mix,” which registers its fifth consecutive up or flat trend for a +1.1 (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 3.0, 6+). From the first of the year through July 2017, the 6+-line for Radio One rhythmic CHR KBFB “97.9 The Beat” (steady at #16) is 2.8 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.7.

6) Houston – Not only does CBS Radio country KILT-FM end at four its string of down or flat trends that produced a -.6 (3.6 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+), by posting a +.9 (to 3.9, 6+) “100.3 The Bull” rockets from #16 to a four-way tie at #10. This is the best 6+-showing for “The Bull” since last December’s 4.0. Although it remains at #3, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA picks up six-tenths to 6.4 (6+), its strongest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016 (10.3). Between March 2017 and June 2017, “Sunny 99.1” had a 6+-pattern of 5.8 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.8. A +1.1 via four straight up or flat trends (3.7 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 4.6 – 4.8, 6+), Cumulus Media CHR KRBE “Houston’s #1 Hit Music Station” inches up from sixth to fifth with its highest 6+-share since December 2015 (4.8, as well). One-half share away from the top is Cox Media Group classic rock KGLK “The Eagle,” which hasn’t had a decrease since February and is +1.2 in that timeframe (5.3 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.2 – 6.5 – 6.5, 6+). Notwithstanding that it is #1 for the sixth consecutive ratings period, Radio One-owned urban AC KMJQ “Majic 102.1 The People’s Station” continues its wild ride as its last three trends have been +1.4 (May 2017); -.6 (June); and now -.7 in July (8.3 – 7.7 – 7.0, 6+). Up a combined +1.0 in back-to-back monthlies (6.9 – 7.2 – 7.9, January-February-March, 6+), “Majic” returned all of it in April (6.9, 6+) before notching May’s +1.4. It is a bit of a similar scenario for Univision Radio regional Mexican KLTN, which is also down seven-tenths (5.0 – 4.3, 6+) and slips from fifth to seventh. Following three straight negative trends that yielded a combined -1.5 (8.0 – 7.4 – 6.7 – 6.5, 6+), KLTN brought back 60% of that deficit in January (+.9), jumping from third to first. It was a very quick stay there though as KLTN surrendered -1.3 in February (7.4 – 6.1, 6+) and dropped to third. In March, KLTN was -.5; +.7 in April; -.2 in May; -1.1 in June; and now -.7 in July. The last time KLTN fell below a five-share (6+) was March 2016 (4.9). Similarly-formatted, Liberman Broadcasting-owned KTJM “La Raza,” which had been up or flat the past five sweeps for a cumulative gain of one full-share (1.3 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.3, 6+), is off four-tenths to 1.9 (#19 to #20, 6+). Surrendering in its entirety the six-tenths it gained in June (3.2 – 3.8 – 3.2, 6+), CBS Radio hot AC KHMX “Houston’s Mix 96-5” segues from #12 to #15. Following four straight gains that yielded a cumulative +1.3 (2.3 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.6, 6+), “Mix” lost four-tenths in May.

7) Atlanta – Following four successive sweeps without an increase for a -1.4 (5.3 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.2 – 3.9, 6+), Cox Media Group adult contemporary WSB-FM “B-98.5” breaks out a gain of eight-tenths to 4.7 (6+) and zooms back into the top ten (#11 to #6). Simultaneous with Cumulus Media’s country-formatted WKHX “Kicks 101.5” improving by seven-tenths to advance from ninth to fifth, Woman’s World Broadcasting’s WTSH “Your Georgia Country” falters by one-half share (1.8 – 1.3, #21 to #23, 6+). This is the third straight increase for “Kicks” for a cumulative +1.2 (3.6 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.8, 6+). Meanwhile, the market’s other country player – iHeartMedia’s WUBL “94.9 The Bull” – is a collective +1.9 via seven successive upticks (2.6 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 4.5, 6+) and carries on at #7 with its best 6+-showing in exactly one year (4.6, 6+, July 2016). Continuing at #15, Cumulus Media’s WNNX “100.5 – Atlanta’s Rock Station” is without a loss for the seventh time in a row as well and is a combined +1.6 since the “Holiday” 2016 report (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+). With a gain of one-half share, City of Atlanta Board of Education news/talk WABE (unchanged at #16) continues its up/down pattern that it began last October (3.5 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.0 – 3.8 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 2.6 – 3.1, 6+). Four consecutive positive trends by Entercom hot AC WSTR “Star 94.1 – Today’s Best Mix” (steady at #13) have produced a gain of eight-tenths (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.7 – 3.8, 6+). Returning the two-tenths it garnered in June, Cox Media Group news/talk WSB-AM is nonetheless #1 for the 19thstraight ratings period (8.6 – 8.8 – 8.6, 6+). Prior to June’s +.2, WSB-AM had been down or flat the previous four sweeps for a combined loss of more than two full-shares (10.7 – 9.9 – 9.5 – 9.5 – 8.6, 6+). January 2017’s 10.7 represents the station’s best-ever (6+) PPM-performance. With a loss of one-tenth in June, co-owned WSRV concluded at five its streak of consecutive gains that netted a +2.3 (4.4 – 4.6 – 5.1 – 5.9 – 6.2 – 6.7, 6+). Now, “Classic Hits 97.1 The River” sputters by seven-tenths to 5.9 (6+), slipping from second to third. The market’s (6+) urban AC share erodes by seven tenths. Specifically: Cox Media Group’s WALR “Kiss 104.1” is off three-tenths (6.2 – 5.9, 6+) and remains at #3, where it is tied with classic rock sibling WSRV, while Radio One-owned WAMJ “Majic – The Real Sound of Atlanta” regresses by four-tenths (4.8 – 4.4, 6+), dipping from fifth to eighth. Even though Cumulus Media CHR WWWQ “Q-100 Atlanta’s New Hits” picks up two-tenths (4.2 – 4.4, 6+), it drops from seventh to eighth; similarly-programmed, iHeartMedia-owned WWPW “Power 96.1 Atlanta’s #1 Hit Music Station” is flat at 4.1, but departs the top ten (#9 to #11). A combined -1.5 in four straight down or flat trends (5.4 – 5.0 – 4.5 – 3.9 – 3.9, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFSH “The Fish” moves from #11 to #12.

8) Philadelphia – In the last ten ratings periods, ever-consistent WUSL “Power 99” has ranged from a low of 4.0 to a high of 4.4 (4.1 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.4, 6+). The iHeartMedia urban contemporary facility though busts out a +1.2 to 5.6, the first time it crosses the five-share level (6+) in nearly three years (5.2, 6+, August 2014) and progresses from ninth to fifth. At least in terms of 6+-share, the steady upward pattern continues for Radio One’s WPHI, which registers its ninth successive sweep without a decrease that has resulted in a net gain of nine-tenths (1.1 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 2.0, 6+); “Boom 103.9” carries on at #19. Having logged a 3.0 (6+) in March, CBS Radio’s WTDY followed with a 2.9 (6+) in April, May, and June but “Today’s 96.5” adds two-tenths to 3.1 (6+) and climbs from #15 to #13. Up three-tenths (7.2 – 7.5, 6+) and repeating at #1 is classic hits-oldies sibling WOGL, which returned to the top spot in June after transitioning from first to third in May. Off by one full-share (3.1 – 2.1, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WKVP “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” has its softest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2016 (2.1, as well) and slips from #14 to #18. Locked on 3.3 (6+) in May and June, public news/talk WHYY (#13 to #15) spirals by eight-tenths to 2.5 – and like WKVP – this is WHYY’s lowest 6+-share since “Holiday” 2016 when it recorded a 2.3. A decrease of seven-tenths by Beasley Media Group’s WXTU “92.5 Philadelphia’s Country Station” (4.0, seventh to tenth, 6+) curtails at six a successive string of up or flat trends that netted a +1.1 (3.6 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.7, 6+). As the result of three straight downward moves, co-owned WMMR is -1.2 (6.0 – 5.7 – 5.3 – 4.8, 6+) and “93.3 Everything That Rocks” drops from fifth to seventh. A combined -.8 since May when it was #1 (7.0 – 6.8 – 6.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned urban AC WDAS-FM “Philly’s Best R&B and Throwbacks” slides from third in June to fourth. This marks the fifth straight month that Connoisseur Media hot AC WPST “94.5 PST” is either down or flat (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 -.9 – .8 – .8, #25, 6+).

9) Long Island – It isn’t often that a station’s “stream” is the lead item in these market “Takeaways,” but such is the case with CBS Radio hot AC WNEW-FM “Fresh 102.7” – and there’s an added twist. From a “no show” in June (.4 in May, 6+), the station’s “stream” bounces back with a +.5 (to .5, #32, 6+); however, the actual FM signal is off by seven-tenths to 1.7. Furthermore, “Fresh” exits the top twenty (#17 to #21, 6+) and ends at ten its successive string of being within 2.0 – 2.5 range (6+). Over and above extending to seven its consecutive string of up or flat trends for a +2.2 since the “Holiday” 2016 report (4.0 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 5.0 – 5.4 – 5.8 – 6.2, 6+), Cox Media Group-owned CHR WBLI “Long Island’s #1 For All the Hits” climbs from #2 to #1, which is where it was in May. It is tied there with Connoisseur Media hot AC WALK-FM “Real Variety 97.5,” which after three consecutive gains that netted a +2.1 (4.2 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 6.3, 6+), drops one-tenth to 6.2 (6+). A full-share loss in March (5.2 – 4.2, 6+) resulted in “Real Variety” tumbling from fourth to seventh, but it jumped from seventh to first in April with a gain of nine-tenths. Albeit off by six-tenths (3.4 – 2.8, 6+), co-owned adult contemporary WKJY “Long Island’s K-98.3” remains at #12. Having sandwiched a 3.3 (6+) in May between 3.5 (6+) in April and another 3.5 (6+) in June, iHeartMedia news/talk WOR erodes by nine-tenths to 2.6 as the New York Mets flagship skids from #11 to #15. Steady at #5, Cox Media Group-owned WBAB “Long Island’s Only Classic Rock” posts a 4.5 (6+) for the third time in the last four ratings periods. In five consecutive sweeps without an increase (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 1.6 – 1.6, 6+) Cumulus Media’s WNSH is a combined -.9 yet “94.7 Nash FM” actually improves from #23 to #22, while CBS Radio sports talk WFAN (sixth to seventh) is down or flat for the fourth time in a row for a -.8 (4.8 – 4.8 – 4.7 – 4.4 – 4.0, 6+). In 2.0 – 2.9 range (6+) for the 32ndstraight sweep, Emmis rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” picks up one-tenth (2.3 – 2.4, 6+), improving from #18 to #16. In three straight (modest) losses (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.3, 6+), Connoisseur Media classic hits oldies WBZO is down four-tenths but “103.1 Max FM” remains at #6.

10) Riverside – Following five straight up or flat trends which netted one full-share (3.7 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.7, 6+), CBS Radio’s KFRG forfeited 70% of that increase in June with a -.7; however, “New Country K-Frog” leaps back with a full-share gain in July (4.0 – 5.0, 6+) to progress from fifth to third. Posting an increase half that much (3.5 – 4.0, +.5, 6+), Liberman Broadcasting regional Mexican KRQB “Que Buena 96.1” jumps from seventh to fifth. In the runner-up slot for the seventh successive ratings period, KOLA was a combined +1.0 in April and May (5.2 – 5.6 – 6.2, 6+), but the Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies outlet repeat’s June’s -.2 (6.2 – 6.0 – 5.8, 6+). A four-tenths loss in March ended at five KOLA’s string of consecutive fluctuations by one-half share (7.1 – 6.6 – 6.1 – 5.6 – 6.1 – 5.6, 6+) for a collective -1.5; KOLA was at #2 six straight times before dropping to third in “Holiday” 2016. Prior to November, it was up or flat the previous six times for a net gain of +2.2 (4.9 – 4.9 – 5.6 – 6.5 – 6.8 – 6.9 – 7.1, 6+). On the plus side regarding Entravision Spanish adult hits KLYY – it is #1 for the 21stconsecutive ratings period and leads KOLA by nine-tenths. Conversely though, “Jose” registers its sixth consecutive decrease for a net loss of nearly three full-shares (9.4 – 9.2 – 8.6 – 8.3 – 8.1 – 7.9 – 6.7, 6+) and is below a seven-share for the first time since May 2016’s 6.5. After five consecutive sweeps without a decrease which produced a +2.2 (7.2 – 7.5 – 7.5 – 8.3 – 8.7 – 9.4, 6+), “Jose” lost two-tenths in February. Going back to the “Holiday” 2016 report, Univision Radio’s similarly-formatted KRCD has been trending a very consistent 1.4 -1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.1 (6+), but “Recuerado” falters by one-half share to .6, slipping from #13 to #14. The five most recent trends for iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KGGI are 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.5 (third back to fourth, 6+), while Good News Radio contemporary Christian KSGN “89.7 Family Friendly” is trending 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.6 (flat at #9, 6+).

11) San Jose – Over and above recapturing 80% of the cumulative -1.5 it has lost in four straight downward sweeps (7.6 – 7.5 – 7.2 – 6.3 – 6.1, 6+), Northern California Public Broadcasting’s KQED-FM (6.1 – 7.3, +1.2, 6+) advances from third to first. Unlisted in San Jose since posting a 5.1 (6+) in the “Holiday” 2015 report, KQED-FM returned in January 2017 by recording a 6.9 (6+) to finish at #1 and had been on top through April. The +1.2 ties KQED-FM with Philadelphia’s WUSL (see above) for the largest (6+) June 2017 – July 2017 gain by any station in these particular 12 PPM-markets. Dislodged from #1 after back-to-back months there and segueing to #2 is CBS Radio all-news operation KCBS-AM (6.5 – 6.2, -.3, 6+). When KCBS-AM added three-tenths in May, it ended a string of three consecutive down or flat trends that produced a -.6 (6.7 – 6.7 – 6.3 – 6.1, 6+). Steady in its trending since March (3.6 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.6, 6+), Entercom classic rock KUFX “98.5 K-Fox – The South Bay’s Classic Rock” dials up a +.7 to 4.3 (6+) to advance from ninth to seventh. Improving by seven-tenths as well and entering the top ten is iHeartMedia’s KYLD “Wild 94.9 The Bay’s #1 Hit Music Station” (2.9 – 3.6, #13 to #10, 6+). Picking up one-half share each are adult contemporary cluster-mate KISQ “98.1 Breeze” (3.9 – 4.4, unchanged at #6, 6+) and KGO (2.6, 6+), which not only ends at five its string of successive sweeps without an increase that generated a -1.2 (3.3 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 2.5 – 2.1 – 2.1, 6+), the Cumulus Media news/talk stations jumps back into San Jose’s top twenty (#21 to #15). Steady at #14, Univision Radio regional Mexican KSOL “Que Buena” picks up two-tenths to 3.0 (6+), thus applying the brakes to five straight downward or negative trends that produced a loss of one full-share (3.8 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 2.8, 6+). Declining for the third month in a row (1.6 – 1.4 – 1.1 – .4, 6+), Entercom sports talk and Oakland A’s flagship KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (#31) is a collective -1.2 since April.

12) Middlesex – Owing to a gain of six-tenths (3.4 – 4.0, 6+), CBS Radio New York City sports talk WFAN-FM “The Fan” is back in the Middlesex-Somerset-Union top ten (#13 to #9). Without a decrease for the seventh straight sweep for a net improvement of +2.4 (2.4 – 2.7 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 4.2 – 4.6 – 4.8, 6+), Emmis New York City rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” carries on at #5. Picking up one half share (4.5 – 5.0, 6+), Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ “La Mega 97.9” has its highest 6+-share in this New Jersey market since January’s 5.3 and progresses from sixth to third. In its fourth consecutive increase (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 3.2 – 3.5, 6+), Cumulus Media New York City hot AC WPLJ is a collective +1.4 and progresses from #14 to #12. At the same time, following three straight gains netting nine-tenths (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.5, 6+), CBS Radio’s similarly-programmed WNEW-FM “Fresh 102.7” relinquishes all but one-tenth of it (2.7, -.8, 6+) and drifts from #11 to #16. Despite ceding June’s +.3 (6.8 – 7.1 – 6.8, 6+),Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW is #1 for the seventh consecutive ratings period. As a result of a “Holiday” 2016 – January 2017 increase of one-full-share (6.8 – 7.8, 6+), “New Jersey 101.5” returned to #1 following one month in the runner-up slot. Prior to “Holiday” 2016, when it was -.7 (6+), WKXW spent 12 consecutive ratings periods on top. A combined +.7 in back-to-back sweeps (2.1 – 2.7 – 2.8), iHeartMedia news/talk and New York Mets flagship WOR surrenders nine-tenths to 1.9 (6+) and exits the top twenty (#17 to #21). Entering the June 2017 sweep, CBS Radio-owned WBMP was down or flat the previous nine times and -1.6 since September (4.5 – 4.3 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 2.9, 6+). The CHR bounced back in June by registering a +.6, but “Amp” returns all of it in July (3.5 – 2.9, -.6, 6+), dipping from #11 to #14. Sputtering by six-tenths as well is iHeartMedia-owned WAXQ “Q-104.3 New York’s Classic Rock” (second to third), which curtails at six a successive string of up or flat trends that yielded a +.9 (4.7 – 5.0 – 5.1 – 5.1 – 5.1 – 5.2 – 5.6, 6+). The nine-tenths lead that iHeartMedia New York City adult contemporary WLTW “Lite FM” (4.8 – 4.3, -.5, fourth to seventh, 6+) held over Beasley Media Group’s similarly-formatted WMGQ (3.9 – 4.2, +.3, steady at #8, 6+) is down to one-tenth.